Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a significant step towards sustainable waste management with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a compressed biogas plant. The initiative is expected to address the city’s growing waste challenges while promoting environmental sustainability.
The biogas plant, with a capacity of 200 Metric Tons per Day (TPD), will be developed on an eight-acre land area at a cost of Rs 175 crore. The project is a collaborative effort involving Oil India Ltd., the Government of Odisha, and BMC. Oil India Ltd. will oversee the funding, operation, and management, while BMC will provide the necessary biodegradable waste feedstock. The Government of Odisha will provide support to ensure the project’s success.
During the inauguration, Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Krushnachandra Mohapatra, highlighted the significance of the initiative in enhancing the city’s sanitation infrastructure. “This biogas plant will process around 200 metric tons of waste daily, producing compressed bio-gas and organic manure. The project will not only improve waste management but also promote sustainable energy use,” said Mohapatra.
The biogas plant is expected to generate 8-9 tons of Compressed Bio-gas per day, which will be utilized as CNG fuel. This aligns with the government’s efforts to promote eco-friendly energy solutions. Mohapatra emphasized the urgency of completing the project within the stipulated two-year period to maximize its impact on the city’s sanitation and environmental sustainability.
Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development, Usha Padhi, lauded the initiative as a model of combining development with environmental stewardship. She noted the potential for technology adoption, economic activities, and job creation through the project, which will ultimately benefit the community at large.
Key officials, including BMC Commissioner Rajesh Pravakar Patil, Chairman and Managing Director of Oil India Ltd. Ranjit Rath, and Additional Secretary-Cum-Mission Director H & UD Binaya Kumar Dash, were present at the event to oversee the successful implementation of this sustainable waste management initiative.